The Jesse Isabelle Spirit Award has been awarded since 2010 as tribute to the memory of Jesse Isabelle, an inspirational young spirit whose life ended too soon in June of 2006. The 2025 Jesse Isabelle Spirit Award winner is Leo Machadas Gomez, a student at Perkins School for the Blind who exemplifies the passion and resilience that Jesse brought each day.
This year’s Jesse Isabelle Spirit Award ceremony was especially meaningful because there were many people in attendance who love Jesse so dearly. His mother, Carol Lawrence, presented the Jesse Isabelle Spirit Award to Leo Machadas Gomez, and was accompanied by her son and Jesse’s brother, Tyler Isabelle, along with her soon-to-be daughter in law, her infant granddaughter, and her husband.
Not only was the family there to honor Jesse and celebrate Leo Machadas Gomez as the 2025 Jesse Isabelle Spirit Award winner, but they also saw many of Jesse’s old teachers, including Paul, who told a lovely story about Jesse. The tree planted at Perkins School for the Blind in honor of Jesse Isabelle stands tall, blooming with beautiful flowers, a true honor to Jesse’s memory. Carol and her family also found Jesse’s brick near the “famous” wall, where students hang out between classes.
It was an honor to celebrate Leo as the 2025 Jesse Isabelle Spirit Award Winner, and we thank him for his vibrant energy he brings to Perkins School for the Blind, where Jesse had one of the happiest years of his life. He discovered independence and created true friendships.
Thank you to all who continue to honor Jesse Isabelle’s memory. He will be forever missed.
